Iain McLean crowned World Bowls Champion of Champions

Scotland’s Iain McLean has won the 2026 World Bowls Champion of Champions, completing an unbeaten campaign at cluBarham in New South Wales, Australia.

Iain defeated Australia’s Max Kleinig in Saturday’s final to reclaim the title he first won in 2014. The victory completes a memorable world singles double, following his success at the World Bowls Indoor Championship earlier this year.

Representing Scotland in the men’s singles, Iain won all seven of his group matches to finish top of Section 4 with 21 points. Victories over Wales, Sweden, USA, Japan, Niue, Hong Kong China and Sri Lanka secured his place in the knockout stages, with a final group shot difference of +93.

He continued that form in Friday’s quarter-final, beating Cyprus’ Bob Manson in straight sets, 8–2, 6–3, to secure a medal and progress to the final day.

India’s reigning Asian singles champion Putul Sonowal awaited in the semi-final. Iain delivered another straight-set victory, winning 8–5, 8–4 to set up a final against Kleinig.

The Australian had also progressed through the competition unbeaten, setting the stage for a closely contested gold medal match.

Kleinig made the stronger start, winning the opening four ends on his way to taking the first set 7–4. Iain responded by winning the second 7–3, taking the final to a deciding tie-break.

With the title on the line, Iain scored three on the opening tie-break end and added two on the next to seal a 5–0 victory and the gold medal.

Ten wins from ten matches brought an outstanding week to a fitting conclusion, as Iain returned to the top of the Champion of Champions podium after winning bronze at the same venue last year.

Everyone at Bowls Scotland congratulates Iain on a fantastic achievement and another proud moment for Scottish bowls.

Knockout results

• Quarter-final: beat Bob Manson (Cyprus) 8–2, 6–3

• Semi-final: beat Putul Sonowal (India) 8–5, 8–4

• Final: beat Max Kleinig (Australia) 4–7, 7–3, 5–0